Program Manager

Program Manager – Career Appointment Appointment: Career appointment, permanent with end date 31 August 2027. Salary: $90,000 – $110,000 annually. Benefits: Full benefits. Travel: up to 25% of the time. Job Summary The Program Manager is responsible for the day‑to‑day operations of astronomy‑related education and professional development programs offered through the University of California Observatories. The role includes coordinating short courses, workshops, recruiting and selecting participants, and providing administrative oversight. As a project manager, the Program Manager collaborates closely with program directors, event coordinators, other staff, and external partners to ensure successful program delivery. Job Duties Short Course and Workshop Coordination (30%) – Manage agenda development, meetings, teaching plans, and visiting speakers. Program Implementation (30%) – Work with staff, faculty, contractors and volunteers to implement programs, solve logistical issues and act as main contact for participants. Program Announcement and Applicant Recruiting (15%) – Announce programs, recruit applicants, monitor applications, and adjust recruiting strategies. Participant Selection and Acceptance (15%) – Evaluate applications, run selection committees, coordinate logistics for lodging and transportation. Program Infrastructure and Administration (10%) – Attend staff meetings, use existing program management tools, perform miscellaneous administrative tasks. Required Qualifications Master’s degree in astronomy, physics, or related field and/or equivalent experience. Comprehensive knowledge of teaching, training or mentoring college‑level or early‑career STEM talent. Experience with training programs outside formal education systems. Strong interest in astronomy and observatories with a commitment to diverse and inclusive outreach. Analytical, organizational and problem‑solving skills. Strong collaborative skills and ability to manage concurrent programs. Proficiency with Google Workspace. Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. in astronomy or related field. Knowledge of adult learning theories and equitable learning environments. Experience managing training programs outside formal education. Observatory experience. Experience with professional development in STEM. Familiarity with UCO/ISEE programs such as the Professional Development Program, AstroTech, ASTRAL, and the Akamai Workforce Initiative. Experience with WordPress templates. Special Conditions of Employment Must pass a criminal history background check. Must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process. Valid California driver’s license required; must participate in DMV pull‑notice program. Long periods of computer work, hybrid schedule possible. Ability to work variable schedule including evenings and weekends, and to respond to emergencies after hours. Must travel up to 25% of the time, locally and nationally. Must wear appropriate safety attire in laboratory settings. Must comply with UC vaccination policy and child‑abuse reporting duties. EEO/AA Statement The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy. The University of California undertakes affirmative action and anti‑discrimination efforts, consistent with its federal and state contractor obligations. Other Important Information No visa sponsorship is available for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California, Santa Cruz